North York Moors

Historic market town and gateway to the North York Moors National Park, with heritage attractions, countryside adventures and easy access to Dalby Forest and Go Ape Dalby.

North York Moors: The Ultimate Guide to England’s Wild Moorland Landscape

The North York Moors is one of the UK’s most distinctive landscapes — a vast expanse of heather moorland, rolling hills, ancient woodland, and dramatic coastline. Stretching across North Yorkshire, it blends rugged natural beauty with charming villages, historic sites, and some of the most scenic walking routes in England.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, a walking holiday, or a longer countryside escape, this guide covers everything you need to know — from the best places to visit and where to stay, to insider tips that most tourists miss.

What is the North York Moors?

Designated as a National Park in 1952, the North York Moors covers over 550 square miles of protected countryside. It’s known for:

  • One of the largest continuous expanses of heather moorland in the UK
  • Deep valleys (“dales”) and rolling hills
  • A dramatic heritage coastline
  • Historic villages and market towns

Unlike more mountainous national parks, the landscape here is open, expansive, and quietly atmospheric — ideal for walking, photography, and slow travel.

North York Moors Map & Key Areas

The park can be broadly divided into three distinct areas: Moorland, Forest & Valleys, and Coast & Clifftops.  

The Moorland is remote, open, and scenic – which is perfect for walking and views. The Forests include Dalby Forest just outside of Pickering, which is also home to Go Ape. Dalby Forest is popular for cycling, wildlife, and family activities such as a play park and picnics. Across the coastline you will discover sea views, fishing villages and fossil-rich beaches.

 

Best Places to visit in the North York Moors

Villages & Towns

  • Goathland – famous for waterfalls and railway heritage
  • Helmsley – a classic market town with a castle and independent shops
  • Staithes – a picturesque fishing village with narrow streets

Coastal Highlights

  • Whitby – iconic abbey, harbour, and gothic heritage
  • Robin Hood’s Bay – steep lanes and stunning coastal views

Natural Landmarks

  • Roseberry Topping – one of the most recognisable viewpoints in the region
  • Mallyan Spout – the tallest waterfall in the park

Things to Do in the North York Moors

There’s no shortage of activities, whether you want adventure or relaxation:

  • Walking and hiking across open moorland
  • Exploring heritage railways and historic sites
  • Visiting local markets and independent shops
  • Wildlife spotting and photography
  • Coastal exploring and fossil hunting

The area is ideal for both active breaks and slower countryside escapes.

North York Moors Walking & Outdoor Activities

The North York Moors is a walker’s paradise.

Popular options include:

  • Short circular walks from villages
  • Long-distance trails like the Cleveland Way
  • Woodland walks in Dalby Forest

Wildlife you may spot includes:

  • Red Grouse
  • Moorland sheep grazing across the hills

Cycling, trail running, and horse riding are also widely available.

North York Moors Suggested Itineraries

1-Day Visit

  • Morning: Whitby
  • Afternoon: Drive across the moors
  • Stop at Goathland

3-Day Visit

  • Day 1: Coast (Whitby + Robin Hood’s Bay)
  • Day 2: Moorland & walking
  • Day 3: Helmsley + surrounding countryside

How to Get to the North York Moors

By Car

Head from York in the South or Head to Whitby from the north. The A19 is handy to turn from the north or south, or the A64 from York.

By Train

York Station to Malton or Scarborough Station.  You can head to Malton and take the bus to Pickering.

By Bus

There are bus routes from York to  Malton, Pickering, Scarborough and Whitby.

By Ferry

Hull Ferry port is 1.5 hours away by car. P&O Ferries link here from Rotterdam Europoort.